August 2023 saw the introduction of this tax by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The tax was put in place at the point where all wagers, winnings from games, and lotteries are paid out. Its goals were to increase domestic tax income and help Ghana’s economy. It has, however, come under heavy fire, especially from young people who have expressed their vehement opposition to the proposal.10% sports wagering tax
Answering a question on Monday at the Bukom Boxing Arena at the NDC’s Town Hall Conversation, Mahama said, “We’ve spoken a lot about this; if we come, we would repeal the betting tax. We are aware that this administration has an agreement with the IMF to start the betting tax, but when we get here, we’ll find another way to make money.
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)’s Domestic Tax Revenue Division stated that the tax produced GH¢15 million in revenue in just one month. The tax is still a divisive topic notwithstanding this increase in income.
In the December 2024 election, Mahama—who is expected to be challenged by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Nana Kwame Bediako, and Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen—reiterated his resolve to discover new revenue streams. His position is in line with a larger criticism of the tax policy of the present administration and is well-received by Ghanaian gamblers.
Voters who are against the present economic policies and want relief from what they consider as onerous taxes may be swayed by the plan to eliminate the tax. The election discussion gains a new perspective from Mahama’s pledge, which emphasizes how budgetary policies affect common Ghanaians.